essay on jane eyre

Essays About Jane Eyre: Top 5 Examples and Prompts

Writing essays about Jane Eyre? Take a look at our essay examples about Jane Eyre and be inspired by our additional prompts.

Jane Eyre is widely considered a classic novel that poignantly exposed the struggles of Victorian women through a story of love and emancipation. Jane Eyre is a Victorian novel written by Charlotte Brontë and published in 1847. Many aspects of the novel are said to derive from the personal story and experiences of the author herself. 

Brontë published this masterpiece with the gender-neutral pen-name Currer Bell to evade criticisms as the rebelliousness of Jane Eyre was defiant of the accepted social mores of its period. While it stirred controversy in its time, the heroine of the novel, with her grit to conquer adversities, break the rules and achieve her desires, offers many lessons that inspire many to this day. 

Read on and see our top essay examples and writing prompts to help with your essays about Jane Eyre.

1. Jane Eyre And The Right To Pester by Olivia Ward Jackson

2. jane eyre: content warnings are as old as the novel itself by jo waugh, 3. the tension between reason and passion in jane eyre by nicholas johnson, 4. reading jane eyre: can we truly understand charlotte brontë or her heroine today by sam jordison, 5. christianity as a form of empowerment in charlotte bronte’s jane eyre by noam barsheshat , 1. summary and personal reflection, 2. pervasive imageries, 3. jane eyre in the perspective of feminism, 4. best jane eyre film adaptations, 5. how is jane eyre’s life story similar to brontë’s, 6. what are the primary themes in jane eyre, 7. describe the characters, 8. how did jane eyre find her “true home” , 9. jane eyre as a bildungsroman, 10. jane eyre and economic independence, top 5 essay examples.

“Indeed, parallels can be drawn between Jane Eyre and those trapped in a professional hierarchy today. In rejecting an unwanted pass from a superior employee, far worse than damaging a fragile male ego, a woman could offset a chain of consequences which could threaten her entire career.”

The essay pays attention to the similarities between the class conflicts during Jane’s time and the hierarchies in the modern workplace. Finally, as feminists today argue over what practices and behavior would qualify as sexual misconduct, the essay turns the spotlight to Jane, with her determination to stand up against those who pester her, as a possible model.

“Why was the novel considered inappropriate for young girls, in particular? Many Victorians considered it “coarse and immoral”…The novel’s addictiveness might also have been an issue.”

The essay takes off from a university’s warnings against reading Jane Eyre and fellow Victorian novel Great Expectations, citing the “distressing” passages in the novels. The essay collates and presents the commentaries of people in shock with the warning. However, the piece also shows that such cautionary measures were not exactly new and, in fact, the first reaction when the book came to light.

“​​At the end of many trials Charlotte permits Jane to return at last to her lover…. They feel no passion or intrigue..  Instead of fire and ice, Charlotte gives us warm slush. Perhaps she never resolved the tension between reason and passion for herself, and so was unable to write convincingly about it.”

Johnson dives deep into how Brontë juxtaposed reason and passion in her novel’s imageries, metaphors, and even characters. In his conclusion, Johnson finds the resolution to the tension between passion and reason unsatisfactory, surmising that this weak ending conveys how Brontë never resolved this conflict in her own life.

“It’s easy to think we are more sophisticated because we now know more about – say – the early history of Christianity. Or because Brontë is, of course, ignorant of modern feminist theory, or poststructuralism. We can bring readings to her work that she couldn’t begin to imagine. But she could easily turn the tables on us…”

The essays reflect on how one from modern society could fully comprehend Brontë through the protagonist of her masterpiece. Jordison emphasizes the seeming impossibility of this pursuit given Brontë’s complex genius and world. Yet, we may still bask in the joy of finding an intimate connection with the author 200 years after Jane Eyre’s publication. 

“Through her conflicts with various men―specifically, Mr. Brocklehurst, Mr. Rochester and St. John Rivers―Jane’s spiritual identity empowers her and supports her independence.”

This critical essay points out how Jane Eyre reconciled feminism and Christianity, highlighting the latter as a vehicle that empowered Jane’s transformation. Despite Jane’s determined spirit to find true love, she reflects her spiritual view of Christianity to prevent falling into an illegitimate love affair, preserving her well-being and self-empowerment. 

10 Best Prompts on Essays About Jane Eyre

Check out our list of the best prompts that could get you started in your essay about Jane Eyre:

Provide a concise summary of the life of the young, orphaned Jane Eyre. First, cite the significant challenges that have enabled Jane’s transformation into a strong and independent woman. Next, provide a personal reflection on the story and how you identify with Jane Eyre. Then, explain which of her struggles and experiences you relate with or find most inspiring. 

From the chestnut and the red room to the ice and fire contrasts, investigate what these imageries signify. Then, elaborate on how these imageries impact Brontë’s storytelling and contribute to the desired effect for her writing style. 

Jane Eyre is highly regarded as one of the first feminist novels. It is a critical work that broadened Victorian women’s horizons by introducing the possibilities of emancipation. Write about how Brontë portrayed Jane Eyre as a feminist if you do not find that the novel advances feminist ideologies, write an argumentative essay and present the two sides of the coin. 

It is estimated that over 16 film adaptations have been made of the book Jane Eyre. Watch at least one of these movie versions and write an analysis on how much it has preserved the book’s key elements and scenes. Then, also offer insights on how the movie adaptation could have improved production, cinematography, cast, and adherence to the book plot, among other factors. 

Draw out the many parallels between the lives of Jane Eyre and her maker Charlotte Brontë. Suppose you’re interested in knowing more about Brontë to identify better and analyze their shared experiences and traits. In that case, The Life of Charlotte Bronte by Elizabeth Gaskell is highly recommended. 

Some of the themes very apparent in the novel are gender discrimination and class conflict. First, point out how Brontë emphasizes these themes. Then, dive deep into other possible themes and cite scenes where you find them echoing the most. 

Describe the characters in the novel, from their roles to their traits and physical appearances. Cite their significant roles and contributions to Jane’s transformation. You may also add a personal touch by focusing on characters with whom you relate or identify with the most,

While Jane grew up in Gateshead with the Reed family to whom she is related by blood, the despicable treatment she received in the place only motivated her to take on a journey to find her true home. First, map out Jane’s search for love and family. Then, explain how finding her “true home” empowered her. 

A bildungsroman roman is a literary genre that focuses on a protagonist’s mental, spiritual, and moral maturation. Discuss the criteria of a bildungsroman novel and identify which parts of Jane Eyre fulfill these criteria.

You may also compare Jane Eyre against heroes of other bildungsroman novels like Pip in Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations. Lay down their similarities and key differences.

In the latter part of the novel, Jane gains greater economic independence thanks to the substantial wealth she inherited. But before this discovery of inheritance, Jane had struggled with economic stability. So, first, tackle how finances affected Jane’s life decisions and how they empowered her to see herself as an equal to Rochester. Then, write about how women today perceive economic security as a source of self-empowerment. 

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers . 

If you’re still stuck, check out our general resource of essay writing topics .

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A Summary and Analysis of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

Here’s a seemingly uncontroversial statement: in 1847, a novel called Jane Eyre was published; the author was Charlotte Brontë. One of the most famous things about Jane Eyre is that the male love interest, Mr Rochester, has locked his first wife, Bertha Mason, in the attic of his house.

Whilst this statement is fine as far as it goes, there are several things we might question about it. But we’ll come to those in our textual analysis of the novel. First, let’s briefly summarise the plot of Jane Eyre , which is now regarded as one of the great Victorian novels: not bad for an author whose school report had once said that she ‘writes indifferently’ and ‘knows nothing of grammar, geography, history, or accomplishments’.

Jane Eyre : plot summary

Jane Eyre is perhaps the original ‘plain Jane’: ordinary-looking rather than beautiful, and a penniless orphan, she lacks the two things, beauty and wealth, which would greatly improve her marriage prospects in adulthood. Her uncle, Mr Reed, had taken her in when her parents died, but upon his death she fell under the care of Mrs Reed, who disliked Jane and treated her differently from her own children.

After Jane strikes out at her step-brother, John Reed, when he bullies her, she is locked in the ‘red room’ of the house, in which her uncle died. She is then sent away to Lowood, an orphan asylum run by a strict Calvinist clergyman named Mr Brocklehurst. There, Jane makes friends with Helen Burns, but Helen dies of typhus soon after. Conditions at the school subsequently improve and Jane stays on as one of the teachers, but when the teacher who had shown her kindness, Miss Temple, leaves the school, Jane decides to apply to become a governess.

Jane is offered the post of governess at Thornfield Hall, owned by Mr Edward Rochester, who is away on business. Mrs Fairfax, the housekeeper, introduces Jane to the young girl she will be teaching and looking after, who is a ward in Mr Rochester’s care. Mr Rochester returns and Jane is attracted to this brooding, haunted, Byronic figure. One night, she sees smoke coming out of his bedroom and rescues him from being burnt to death. He tells her that Grace Poole, a sewing-woman who lives in the house, was probably responsible for the fire.

When Mr Rochester brings home the beautiful Blanche Ingram, Jane realises she has been deluding herself with thoughts that he might love her, plain governess that she is. A man named Mr Mason from the West Indies arrives at Thornfield Hall and is attacked while in the upper portions of the house; once again, Jane assumes that Grace Poole was responsible. Mr Rochester announces to Jane that he plans to marry Blanche Ingram.

Jane is summoned by Mrs Reed, who is dying. Mrs Reed confesses to Jane that another of her uncles, Mr Eyre, had written to her because he wanted to make Jane his heiress. Mrs Reed had lied to him, writing back that his niece was dead. And then, when Jane returns to Thornfield, she discovers that Mr Rochester isn’t going to marry Blanche but wants her to be his wife instead. Jane accepts, but she also writes to her uncle to tell him that she is alive, in the hope that she will receive her inheritance and, with it, some financial independence.

Before the wedding, a mysterious woman enters Jane’s bedroom and tears her bridal veil in two. Then, on the day of their wedding, the ceremony is interrupted by Mr Mason, who declares that Rochester is already married, and his wife is concealed within Thornfield Hall.

Jane discovers that Rochester had married this woman, Bertha Mason, while out in Jamaica, under pressure from her family to do so. There’s a history of insanity in the family, and it was Bertha who set fire to Rochester’s bed and tore Jane’s bridal veil. Grace Poole is the one who keeps watch over Bertha, not the one responsible for these crimes.

Jane doesn’t want to be Rochester’s mistress, so she leaves Thornfield Hall and falls into poverty, almost starving to death until she is taken in by a clergyman named St John Rivers and befriended by his sisters, who live on the brink of poverty.

Although Jane conceals her true identity, St John discovers the truth after reading in the papers that her wealthy uncle has died, leaving her his fortune. By (rather far-fetched) coincidence, it turns out that St John Rivers’ sisters are Jane’s cousins, and Jane promises to share her inheritance with them.

St John wishes to travel to India as a Christian missionary, but before he leaves he proposes marriage to Jane, not out of love for her but because he wants to enlist her to his cause. In a romantic plot line that mirrors Rochester’s wooing of her, St John gradually wears her down until she is on the verge of accepting his offer. But then, from outside, she hears a voice calling her name: it’s Mr Rochester.

Jane returns to Thornfield Hall to discover that Rochester has been living as a recluse since the revelations came out on their wedding day. Bertha set fire to the house, destroying it, and fatally falling from the roof in the process. Rochester went to live at another house, having become blind in the fire.

Jane marries Rochester and nurses him back to health. He partially recovers his sight and Jane gives birth to their first child. Jane hears from St John Rivers in India, where he is pursuing his Christian mission with zeal.

Jane Eyre : analysis

Jane Eyre is, like Wuthering Heights , a novel which bears the influence of Gothic fiction: the haunted castle has become a country house, the ghost has become the (still very much alive) madwoman, Rochester’s first wife; and, in true Gothic fashion, there is a secret that threatens to destroy the house and its inhabitants if (or when) it comes to light. Brontë fuses these Gothic elements with the genres of romance and melodrama, with Jane’s two suitors representing erotic love and Christian fervour respectively.

As Gilbert Phelps observes in his analysis of Jane Eyre in Introduction to Fifty British Novels, 1600-1900 (Reader’s Guides) , the fire at Thornfield is symbolic, mirroring Jane’s own act of purgation as she rejects relationships founded on both the body and the soul at the expense of the other, until she and Rochester are ready to be together.

Curiously, the namesake of Edward Rochester, the Earl of Rochester, was one of the most erotic poets in English literature (we have gathered some of his most famous poems together here ). Lord Rochester was a kind of Byronic hero before Byron himself even existed, with his work dominated by the physical and sensuous side of love and relationships. St John Rivers, by contrast, has a name derived (in rather heavy-handed fashion, it must be said) from the Christian Evangelist, so we can never forget what he represents.

Jane’s journey of self-knowledge and experience leads her to understand that she must reject both extremes: to be Rochester’s mistress is to privilege the physical at the expense of the spiritual (because their union is unlawful in the eyes of God), but to marry St John when he does not love her nor she him would be a betrayal of the physical and romantic love that Jane realises is equally important.

But in terms of its central romantic plot between the plain, poor orphan girl and the rich, noble male protagonist, Jane Eyre owes something to the fairy tales of Cinderella , Snow White , Beauty and the Beast , and, in a more sinister turn, Bluebeard , with his castle concealing his (dead) wives. Brontë weaves together these various influences into a largely successful whole, even if the plot hinges (as noted above) on some pretty wild coincidences.

In his study of plot, The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories , Christopher Booker goes so far as to categorise Jane Eyre as a ‘rags to riches’ story, comparing it with the tale of Aladdin . Both are poor children who attain a romantic partner above their social station, only for the presence of some other (Bertha Rochester; the sorcerer in the Aladdin story) to bring their plans crashing down. They must then rebuild everything until they can legitimately attain the life they want.

To conclude this analysis, let’s return to where we started, with those opening statements about Jane Eyre . Of course we know the author of the novel now as Charlotte Brontë, but that wasn’t the name that appeared on the title-page of the first edition in 1847.

There, the book was credited to Currer Bell, the androgynous pseudonym chosen by Brontë, much as her sisters Anne and Emily published as Acton and Ellis Bell respectively.

The novel soon won her the respect of a number of high-profile literary figures, including her hero William Makepeace Thackeray, who was reportedly so moved by Jane Eyre that he broke down in tears in front of his butler. Brontë would dedicate the second edition of the book to the Vanity Fair author and later met Thackeray (in 1849).

To England, then, I conveyed her; a fearful voyage I had with such a monster in the vessel. Glad was I when I at last got her to Thornfield, and saw her safely lodged in that third-storey room, of whose secret inner cabinet she has now for ten years made a wild beast’s den – a goblin’s cell.

‘That third-storey room’, not ‘that attic’. And Jane makes it clear that the attic of the house is above the third storey of the house: ‘Mrs. Fairfax stayed behind a moment to fasten the trap-door; I, by dint of groping, found the outlet from the attic, and proceeded to descend the narrow garret staircase. I lingered in the long passage to which this led, separating the front and back rooms of the third storey ’ (emphases added).

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2 thoughts on “A Summary and Analysis of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre”

I love this book, despite the totally bonkers plot!

So glad it’s cleared up Rochester did not lock his wife in the attic. It should be mentioned how horrible insane asylums were at that time, so Rochester should get credit for saving Bertha from that fate. However, the bigamy stunt is definitely inexcusable.

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Charlotte Brontë

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Love, Family, and Independence

As an orphan at Gateshead, Jane is oppressed and dependent. For Jane to discover herself, she must break out of these restrictive conditions and find love and independence. Jane must have the freedom to think and feel, and she seeks out other independent-minded people as the loving family she craves. Jane, Helen Burns , and Ms. Temple enjoy a deep mutual respect, and form emotional bonds that anticipate the actual family Jane finds in Mary …

Social Class and Social Rules

Life in 19th-century Britain was governed by social class, and people typically stayed in the class into which they were born. Both as an orphan at Gateshead and as a governess at Thornfield, Jane holds a position that is between classes, and interacts with people of every level, from working-class servants to aristocrats. Jane's social mobility lets Brontë create a vast social landscape in her novel in which she examines the sources and consequences of…

Gender Roles

In 19th-century England, gender roles strongly influenced people's behavior and identities, and women endured condescending attitudes about a woman's place, intelligence, and voice. Jane has an uphill battle to become independent and recognized for her personal qualities. She faces off with a series of men who do not respect women as their equals. Mr. Brocklehurst , Rochester , and St. John all attempt to command or master women. Brontë uses marriage in the novel to…

Religion and spirituality are key factors in how characters develop in the novel. Jane matures partly because she learns to follow Christian lessons and resist temptation. Helen Burns introduces Jane to the New Testament, which becomes a moral guidepost for Jane throughout her life. As Jane develops her relationship with God, Mr. Rochester must also reform his pride, learn to pray, and become humble. Brontë depicts different forms of religion: Helen trusts in salvation; Eliza …

Feeling vs. Judgment

Just as Jane Eyre can be described as Jane's quest to balance her contradictory natural instincts toward independence and submission, it can also be described as her quest to find a balance between passionate feeling on the one had and judgment, or repression of those feelings, on the other. Through the examples of other characters in the novel, such as Eliza and Georgiana, Rochester and St. John—or Bertha, who has no control over her emotions…

The Spiritual and the Supernatural

Brontë uses many themes of Gothic novels to add drama and suspense to Jane Eyre . But the novel isn't just a ghost story because Brontë also reveals the reasons behind supernatural events. For instance, Mr. Reed's ghost in the red-room is a figment of Jane's stressed-out mind, while Bertha is the "demon" in Thornfield. In Jane Eyre , the effects of the supernatural matter more than the causes. The supernatural allows Brontë to explore…

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Essays on Jane Eyre

Prompt examples for jane eyre essays, jane's journey to independence.

Trace Jane Eyre's journey to independence and self-discovery throughout the novel. How does she evolve as a character, and what challenges and obstacles does she overcome on her path to finding her own voice and identity?

The Role of Social Class

Analyze the role of social class in "Jane Eyre." How do class distinctions affect the characters' interactions and choices? Discuss the significance of Jane's lower social standing and her relationships with characters like Mr. Rochester and St. John Rivers.

Gothic Elements and Atmosphere

Examine the use of gothic elements and atmosphere in the novel. How does Charlotte Brontë create a sense of mystery and suspense in the story? Discuss the role of Thornfield Hall and the character of Bertha Mason in contributing to the gothic ambiance.

Feminism and Gender Roles

Discuss the feminist themes in "Jane Eyre." How does Jane challenge traditional gender roles and expectations? Explore her relationship with Mr. Rochester in the context of gender dynamics and power struggles.

Religion and Morality

Examine the themes of religion and morality in the novel, particularly in Jane's interactions with characters like Mr. Brocklehurst and St. John Rivers. How do these characters' beliefs and actions influence Jane's own moral development?

Romantic Love in the Novel

Analyze the portrayal of romantic love in "Jane Eyre." How does Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester evolve, and what obstacles do they face? Discuss the idea of love as a source of strength and vulnerability in the novel.

A Feminist Approach to Jane Eyre: Struggling for Self Realization

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The Symbolism of Fire and Ice in Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

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Jane Eyre and The Search for Independence

"jane eyre" by charlotte bronte and the women of the victorian era, the evolution of rochester's character in jane eyre, jane eyre by charlotte bronte: resolving the issue of equality and women’s role in society through freud’s psychoanalytic theory, feminist theory and marxist classism, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

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Feminist Voice in Jane Eyre

Individual against environment: importance of setting in jane eyre, to what extent jane eyre can be read as a feminist text, understanding jane eyre through bertha mason, women history of empowerment in jane eyre, women role in jane eyre, jane eyre is a fantastic novel, critisism of several religious aspets in jane eyre, sadness, hope, and tension in jane eyre, a novel by charlotte bronte, analysis of jane and rochester’s relationship in bronte’s jane eyre, the significance of the character of jane eyre, individual vs society in charlotte bronte’s jane eyre, critiquing christian interpretations in charlotte bronte's "jane eyre", a critique of the social hierarchies of victorian england in jane eyre, imperialism & colonialism in the novel "jane eyre" by charlotte bronte, jane eyre: a woman from book, "no net ensnares me": rebellion against conformity in jane eyre, mythological level and suspense in jane eyre, marxism and class system in jane eyre, victorian novel analysis: jane eyre by charlotte bronte.

October 16, 1847, Charlotte Bronte

Novel, Victorian Literature

Jane Eyre, Edward Rochester, St. John Rivers, Mrs. Reed, Bessie Lee, Mr. Lloyd, Georgiana Reed, Eliza Reed, John Reed, Helen Burns, Mr. Brocklehurst, Maria Temple, Miss Scatcherd, Alice Fairfax, Bertha Mason, Grace Poole, Adèle Varens, Celine Varens, Sophie, Richard Mason, Mr. Briggs, Blanche Ingram, Diana Rivers, Mary Rivers, Rosamond Oliver, John Eyre, Uncle Reed

1. Beattie, V. (1996). The Mystery at Thornfield: Representations of Madness In" Jane Eyre". Studies in the Novel, 28(4), 493-505. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/29533162) 2. Bossche, C. R. V. (2005). What Did" Jane Eyre" Do? Ideology, Agency, Class and the Novel. Narrative, 13(1), 46-66. (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236760140_What_Did_Jane_Eyre_Do_Ideology_Agency_Class_and_the_Novel) 3. Andersson, A. (2011). Identity and independence in Jane Eyre. (http://www.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2%3A463653&dswid=7105) 4. Griesinger, E. (2008). Charlotte Brontë's religion: faith, feminism, and Jane Eyre. Christianity & Literature, 58(1), 29-59. (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/014833310805800103) 5. Sternlieb, L. (1999). Jane Eyre:" Hazarding Confidences". Nineteenth-Century Literature, 53(4), 452-479. (https://online.ucpress.edu/ncl/article-abstract/53/4/452/66369/Jane-Eyre-Hazarding-Confidences) 6. Stoneman, P. (2017). Jane Eyre on Stage, 1848–1898: An Illustrated Edition of Eight Plays with Contextual Notes. Routledge. (https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315251639/jane-eyre-stage-1848%E2%80%931898-patsy-stoneman) 7. Beaty, J. (1996). Misreading Jane Eyre: A Postformalist Paradigm. The Ohio State University Press. (https://kb.osu.edu/handle/1811/6286) 8. Bodenheimer, R. (1980). Jane Eyre in Search of Her Story. Papers on Language and Literature, 16(4), 387. (https://www.proquest.com/docview/1300110761?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true)

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Jane Eyre Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre is a novel by Charlotte Brontë. Jane Eyre literature essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Jane Eyre b...

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Jane Eyre Essays

Women in literature: examining oppression versus independence in henry v and jane eyre kathern armstrong.

"In many different societies, women, like colonised subjects, have been relegated to the position of 'Other,' 'colonised' by various forms of patriarchal domination. They thus share with colonised races and cultures an intimate experience of the...

Jane Eyre: The Independent and Successful Woman Of the Nineteenth Century Rebecca Kivak

Imagine a girl growing up around the turn of the nineteenth century. An orphan, she has no family or friends, no wealth or position. Misunderstood and mistreated by the relatives she does have, she is sent away to a school where the cycle of...

Mystery and Suspense George Fleischer

What means does Charlotte Bronte employ to create mystery and suspense in Jane Eyre?

Mystery and suspense in Bronte's novel Jane Eyre provides a crucial element to the reader's interpretation of the novel, allowing Bronte to subtly aid the reader...

In Search of Permanence Anonymous

In Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre, the setting is used as a tool to reflect the hardships its protagonist, Jane Eyre, experiences. The locations Jane resides in play an integral part in determining what actions she is to take next. Her transient...

Jane's Art and Story Gregg Bernhardt

"Each picture told a story; mysterious often to my undeveloped understanding and imperfect feelings, yet ever profoundly interesting." --Jane Eyre (9)

There is something extraordinary and spiritual about Jane Eyre's artwork. In...

Beauty and the Representation of Authenticity: Women in Jane Eyre Alison Anne Kuhns

In the novel Jane Eyre, author Charlotte Bronte places great importance on the appearance of her characters, repeatedly evaluating their attractiveness through narrative descriptions and dialogue. Her heroine, Jane, is mentioned countless times as...

In Defense of an Ending: St. John and the Role of Destiny in Jane Eyre Anonymous

"Reader, I married him," proclaims Jane in the first line of Bronte's famous conclusion to her masterpiece, Jane Eyre (552). The reader, in turn, responds to this powerful line by preparing for what will surely be a satisfying ending: the...

A Life On a Page Alison Anne Kuhns

Subjective novelists tend to use personal attitudes to shape their characters. Whether it be an interjection of opinion here, or an allusion to personal experience there, the beauty of a story lies in the clever disclosure of the author's...

Jane Eyre's Flight From Flight Emily Flynn

"There was an unspeakable charm in being told what to do, and having everything decided for her"

--George Eliot, The Mill on the Floss

The feminist literary critics, Gilbert and Gubar, claim, in their famous essay on Jane Eyre in The Madwoman in the...

Standing Alone: Isolation and Narration in Villette and Jane Eyre Natasha Rosow

In Villette and Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë creates protagonists who are markedly strange and isolated people. Throughout both books, their awkwardness in society and difficulty communicating is a continuous concern. These women are also our...

Fire: Destruction and Creation Chloe Mead

Scorching flames, conflagration, burning. The imagery of fire has long been linked to power and passion. Fire can enact complete obliteration, and yet can also forge a new beginning where only scattered ashes of the past remain. The symbolic motif...

The Struggles of the Heroines in Wide Sargasso Sea and Jane Eyre Anonymous

Antoinette Cosway in Wide Sargasso Sea and Jane Eyre in Jane Eyre are both relatively isolated women struggling to survive in a male-dominated society. Although both women are striving to attain similar goals of happiness, equality, and a sense of...

Jane Eyre: An Uncommon Heroine Anonymous

"They are not fit to associate with me," says young Jane Eyre of her rude, spoiled cousins who consider themselves above her.(29) In this simple quote lies all the facets of the young Jane: she is angry, passionate, and subtly - but positively -...

Treatment of the Independant Female in The Portrait of a Lady and Jane Eyre Anonymous

Assignment: Discuss the treatment of female independence and the independent heroine in two Victorian novels.

Jane Eyre , by Charlotte Bronte, and The Portrait of a Lady , by Henry James, both utilise the Victorian convention of the orphaned heroine...

The Unenslaved Self: Feminist Enlightenment in Jane Eyre Anonymous

In Jane Eyre, each episode Charlotte Brontë tells of Jane's life recounts a new struggle, always featuring a man and his patriarchal institution: John Reed's Gateshead, Brocklehurst's Lowood, Rochester's Thornfield, and St. John's Moor House. In...

The Impossibility of Standing Alone: Jean Rhys's "Wide Sargasso Sea" in the Context of Bronte's "Jane Eyre" Grant Mackenzie

Wide Sargasso Sea was published in 1965, and immediately caught the attention of critics. Its publication helped to save Jean Rhys from the obscurity into which she had fallen after her previous novels, published between the First and Second World...

A Psychoanalytic Criticism of Emma, Jane Eyre, and Tess of the D'Urbervilles Jenna Weiner

Although his methods have largely been discredited, Sigmund Freud's theories about the unconscious, the subconscious, and repression are extremely useful when applied to literary texts. None of the three novels discussed here - Jane Austen's Emma ,...

Class Structure and Morality in Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre Jenna Weiner

At first glance, Jane Eyre might be seen as simply a skillfully written Gothic romance. A closer look reveals layers of gender criticism and feminism. Yet, one of the most interesting readings focuses on the layers of class and Marxist commentary...

Devices Used In Jane Eyre and Aurora Leigh to Represent Female Subjugation Kaitlyn DeConto

Though the authors and genres of the works Jane Eyre and Aurora Leigh are distinctive, the messages and methods of communication within both are quite comparable. Both authors aim to, among other things, expose the plight of their female...

Surrogate Mother Figures in Jane Eyre Anonymous

Jane’s marginal status as an orphan is partially obviated by various parental figures that appear throughout the novel. For example, Bessie and Miss Temple play very maternal roles and take Jane under their wings when she is wrongfully accused....

The Burden of Feminism in Jane Eyre Monica Sterk

Two popular feminist theorists, Sandra M. Gilbert and Susan Gubar, have said in their essay “The Madwoman in the Attic” that there is a trend in literary history that places women characters into one of two stereotypes: either the “passive angel”...

Examining Femininity in "Wide Sargasso Sea" Emily Murphy

As the cult of domesticity grew during the nineteenth century, society began to fixate on the proper role of a woman. Jean Rhys examines the contradictions and consequences involved in setting such standards through documenting the decline of Jane...

The Woman at the Door: The Gypsy Scene in Jane Eyre Anonymous

Jane’s relationship with Mr. Rochester is marked by uncertainty in equality and independence in Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. Using the Gothic elements of disguise in the gypsy scenes, Mr. Rochester assumes an ambiguous role of gender and class...

Signifiance of Setting in Jane Eyre Amy Hussein

Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre opens at dreary Gateshead Hall, where the orphaned title character is compelled to live with her wealthy aunt. Here the young Jane appears reserved and unusual, a girl who says she can be “happy at least in my way”...

Themes and Analysis

By charlotte brontë.

‘Jane Eyre’ represents the typical contemporary feminist woman who loves herself and searches for respect from others. Some of the well-thought-out themes she personifies anchor around self-love, romantic love, spirituality, independence, and social class.

Article written by Victor Onuorah

Degree in Journalism from University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Among other themes, religion also comes up top as a major influencing factor that goes on to shape the protagonist in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ and the lessons learned to stay with her for the rest of her life – often serving as a curb to her immoderations and moral excesses.

Jane Eyre Themes

Spirituality.

Spirituality makes a major part of Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ’ – and goes on to have a massive influence on several of the book’s characters , especially on Jane, the protagonist. Because the book’s time setting is centered around Victorian English society , from the early 1800s, Christianity became the prevalent religion that had the most influence on the people. 

Jane certainly has a few people in her life – like Helen and St. John Rivers- that help sharpen her spirituality and build a moral life. Although, like these characters whose views are extreme, she finds a middle ground that works well with her personality.

Independence and Self Love

Charlotte Brontë succeeded in building Jane into a strong, independent woman who develops a sort of iron-clad mentality on her selfhood and integrity. She discovers the kind of woman she wants to be from early on, and It’s not life, and actions are dictated by men or society. She works towards this goal without compromises, even though she has no close family, home, or social security to make the decision easier. 

Social Class

Social class is another such theme dealt with heavily by Charlotte Brontë in her book, ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ and readers get to see this being called into action throughout the book. As is normal with the class system, the people at the low end of the class tend to suffer the most, and Jane finds herself in this position – having lost her parents at a tender age and left to stay with her mean aunt who, despite her affluent status, is unable to lift Jane the social ladder instead causes more troubles for her by horribly treating her.

Key Moments in Jane Eyre

• At Gateshead, ten years old, Jane endures the most horrible treatment living with Mrs. Reed, a wealthy but cruel widow and mother of three, and also Jane’s aunt. 
• Aside from putting up with her mean aunt, Jane also has to manage her mean cousins – especially John Reed, who often bullies her at the slightest chance. 
• Jane soon gets into trouble with Mrs. Reed for challenging John and is put into a chamber called the ‘red room,’ the same place where Mrs. Reed’s husband and Jane’s uncle had spent his final hours.
• Jane is traumatized by a possible ghostly presence and reacts to it by crying and fainting. 
• After her release, she is tended to by two persons, Bessie – a servant who is the only one in the house that feeds and truly cares for her; and Mr. Lloyd, a pharmacist who has come to treat her. 
• After examining Jane and feeling pity for her, Mr. Lloyd advises Mrs. Reed that allowing Jane to go to a distant school may be the only way to get rid of her troubles. 
• Jane is sent to a highly disciplinary Lowood School where she meets some nice people, but also deplorable ones. One of the latter is her headmaster, Mr. Brocklehurst, who is later fired for his hypocrisy, extravagance, and poor management skill. 
• At Lowood, Jane also meets the kind and virtuous Helen Burn – who sadly dies prematurely, and a caring mother figure-like Miss Temple – who replaces Mr. Brocklehurst.
• Jane stays at Lowood for eight years and leaves afterward – seeking new experiences from the outer world. She finds a job as a home tutor at Thornfield, where she attends to the young and vibrant Adéle, an illegitimate stepdaughter of the shrewd and aggressive Mr. Rochester, Jane’s boss and owner of the Thornfield mansion. 
• Shortly after, Jane begins falling for her boss, and one time saves him from a fire set by Mr. Rochester’s mentally sick wife, Bertha Mason, although Jane doesn’t know about this as housekeeper Grace Poole takes the blame instead. 
• Mr. Rochester, who secretly now has feelings for Jane, intends to make her jealous and brings home Blanche Ingram, a beautiful woman, as his mistress. Jane is devastated by this and doesn’t say anything. 
• Suddenly and unexpectedly, Mr. Rochester proposes to Jane. Astonished and dumbfounded, Jane accepts, but the wedding is not about to stand Richard Mason, Mr. Rochester’s in-law, flies into town with a lawyer to disrupt the marriage. 
• Jane learns that Mr. Rochester has a living wife after he takes them to the attic where she’s kept. This is too much for Jane to handle, so she leaves Thornfield. 
• Depressed and without any clear destination, Jane wanders the street for three days – sleeping outside and begging for bread. 
• On the third day, and to Jane’s luck, a clergyman, St. John Rivers, and his two sisters find Jane around their residence, the Moor House, and bring her in. He helps Jane secure a teaching job in Morton and helps Jane claim an inheritance of 20,000 pounds left by her John Eyre, which Jane knows nothing about.
• St. John also tells Jane that John Eyre was also their uncle – this makes Jane and the Rivers siblings cousins. 
• St. John plans a missionary trip to India and asks Jane to marry and accompany him. Jane wants to travel but doesn’t love him enough to marry him. She continues to ponder about it until one, and in what feels like a dream, Mr. Rochester calls out to her to come home to him. 
• She leaves for Thornfield the next morning only to find the house is burnt to ashes by Bertha – who died in the fire, leaving Mr. Rochester with an arm and blind after he managed to rescue the servants. 
• Jane locates Mr. Rochester at his new home in Ferndean and marries him.
• After one decade of marriage, the couple stays very happy with their children. Jane shares that her husband regained half of his sight early enough to see his first son being born.

Style and Tone 

In the story of ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ Charlotte Brontë utilizes a descriptive first-person perspective – allowing her protagonist, Jane, to share her deeply touching story with her readers for a chance to fully understand her plight and the pains she passed through on her way to becoming an independent, well-respected wife and society woman. 

Charlotte’s tone for ‘ Jane Eyre ’ is warm and welcoming , thanks to the personality of the book’s protagonist. However, the book is by designation a gothic romance and so is characteristically imbued with plot mysteriousness, occasional dread, and horror.

Figurative Languages

Charlotte Brontë brings to play a wide range of figurative languages in her masterwork, ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ and except for a good few, quotes therein are typically stretchered using sentence joiners like commas, semicolons et cetera. For the figurative language, readers should expect to find a bulk of metaphors, similes, and personification being used throughout the pages of the book. 

Analysis of Symbols in Jane Eyre  

Fire is portrayed on several occasions in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ and outside of its literal meaning, concerning Jane, it’s a clear motif for her drive, delicateness, and passion towards achieving her goals.

Ice and Chills

These hold a motif of loneliness, personal pains, and suffering Jane faces at different points in her life – from Gateshead, under her cruel aunt and her children – to Lowood school, then to sleeping three days in the streets. Ice and chills are a representation of the harsh conditions Jane faces throughout the book.

The Red-Room 

Restrictive, repressive, and scary, the red room symbolizes how society represses Jane’s shine and ability to become an independent, self-sustaining woman of her time, seeing as that is nearly impossible for any woman to achieve in such a society. 

What is a frontal theme in ‘ Jane Eyre ’?

Search for one’s voice, freedom and independence prove a prevalent theme in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ however, there are also the themes of love, religion and spirituality, and social class. 

What does the red room signify in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ’?

One important sign of the red room is its restrictive and scary nature, and this is similar to the limitations and challenges Jane would later face in the outer society.

In Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ how does Jane become the woman she always wanted to be?

Jane becomes the best version of herself because she sets a goal for herself, follows through on it, and in the end, becomes an independent woman with her voice and obtains respect and equality for her gender. 

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About Victor Onuorah

Victor is as much a prolific writer as he is an avid reader. With a degree in Journalism, he goes around scouring literary storehouses and archives; picking up, dusting the dirt off, and leaving clean even the most crooked pieces of literature all with the skill of analysis.

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81 Jane Eyre Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best jane eyre topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 most interesting jane eyre topics to write about, 👍 good research topics about jane eyre, ❓ jane eyre essay questions.

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte: The Novel Reading Analysis If the formalist theory is applied to Jane Eyre, the main point of such analysis would be the form of the novel, its structure, and the imagery.
• Bronte’s “Jane Eyre” and Rhys’ “Wide Sargasso Sea” Her immediate kin regarded her more as a burden and made her do all the hard work and she lived in a constant environment of scorn and hatred.
• Significance of Jane’s and Antoinette’s Dreams in Jane Eyre and Wide Sargasso Sea The dream is a premonition of danger that is ahead; although she dreams after fighting with her friend Tia, it also represents her conscience because her friend despises her during the ordeal. However, the dream […]
• A Hint of Things to Come: Summary and Analysis of Chapter 25 of Jane Eyre With the help of such walk, the author underlines that something mysterious and unknown to Jane is waiting for her and she has to find more powers to discover the truth.
• Social Inequality in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte At the same time Jane Eyre symbolizes the struggle of the social classes in 19th century England. The story traced the development of the ten year old child as a hapless prey in an oppressive […]
• Compare the Relationship of Mothers and Daughters in Jane Eyre and Wide Sargasso Sea The two works by the authors are related in that one work is the rewrite of another or almost the duplicate of another and therefore almost all the themes are the same in both books […]
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Jane Eyre appears to have great self esteem even though she is an orphan and has a lot of negative energy and criticism around her in the shape of her aunt and cousins.
• Jane Eyre: Novel vs. Film Bronte’s original story narrates Jane’s story as an orphan who finds joy at the end of the story but Stevenson’s film tells the story of Jane as a person who went through a lot of […]
• Jane Eyre and Daisy Miller: Two Women Ahead of Their Time and Their Men Jane tells her story as explicitly as she can and yet much of the substance of that story is given in the descriptive passages where she uses natural symbolism to convey the mysteries of her […]
• Home Theme in the “Jane Eyre” Film by Fukunaga While Jane is looking for a building full of people who support her to call it her home, her real home is a person she loves.
• Charlotte Bronte’s Portrayal of Childhood in “Jane Eyre”
• The Maturation of a Girl Into a Woman in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte
• Passion vs. Reason in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte
• The Theme of Gender and Marriage in “Jane Eyre”
• Critique of the Behaviour and Values of the 18th Century in “Jane Eyre”
• The Significance of Class Relations in “Jane Eyre”
• The Portrayal of Females in “Jane Eyre” and “The Handmaid’s Tale”
• An Analysis on the Portrayal of Males in “Jane Eyre”
• Crucial Ideas in the Novel “Wide Sargasso Sea” and “Jane Eyre”
• Identity and Independence of Jane Eyre in Charlotte Bronte’s Novel
• The Representation of Social Class and Feminism in “Jane Eyre”
• The Lack of Laughter in Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre”
• Psychological, Emotional and Physical Horror in “The Yellow Wallpaper” and “Jane Eyre”
• Female Mental Illness in “Jane Eyre” and Great Expectations
• A Religious Approach of Evangelical Christianity in “Jane Eyre”
• The Evolution of the Main Character in “Jane Eyre”
• Comparing and Contrasting Jane Eyre’s Mental State From Text to Adaptation
• Challenges Faced and Solved in “Jane Eyre”
• Jane Eyre’s Passion, Sexuality, and Desire in Charlotte Bronte’s Novel
• The Presentation of Women in Society in “Jane Eyre” and “Rebecca”
• The Symbolism of Fire and Ice in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte
• Jane Eyre and Religions Teachings of Forgiveness
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• The Significance of the Character of Jane Eyre
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• A Critique of the Social Hierarchies of Victorian England in “Jane Eyre”
• Jane Eyre as an Independent Woman in 19th Century
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• Emotions Over Rationality in Final Chapter of “Jane Eyre”
• Progression of Female Characters From Jane Eyre to Hermione Granger
• Moral Identity of an Orphan in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Convey Childhood and School Experience in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Are Women Presented in “Jane Eyre”?
• What Makes Jane Eyre an Unusual Woman for Her Time?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Use the Different Houses in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Does Bronte Convey Jane Eyre’s State?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Develop the Gothic Features of “Jane Eyre”?
• How Much Sympathy Does the Reader Feel for Jane Eyre at Different Stages in the Story?
• What Are the Main Moral Messages of “Jane Eyre”?
• To What Extent Is Charlotte Bronte Reflecting Victorian Morality in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Does Bronte Create Tension and Suspense in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Does Bronte Show the Reader Jane’s Resilience in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Use Setting and Weather in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Effectively Does Charlotte Bronte Convey the Child’s Viewpoint in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Does Post-colonialism Help Interpret and Evaluate “Jane Eyre”?
• How Does Bronte’s Characterisation of Jane Eyre?
• How Narrative Techniques Are Employed Within “Jane Eyre”?
• How Many Chapters Are in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte?
• What Is Jane Eyre’s Occupation?
• How Is Lowood Different From What Jane Had Anticipated in “Jane Eyre”?
• In Jane Eyre, What Does Jane Tell St. John and His Sisters of Her Past in “Jane Eyre”?
• What Is the Basic Storyline of “Jane Eyre”?
• In What Ways Might “Jane Eyre” Be Considered a Feminist Novel?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Present Jane Eyre’s Oppression and Her Ability to Overcome It?
• How Does Thornfield Project That Good Things Will Happen to Jane Eyre?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Use Language Detail and Setting in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Do “Jane Eyre” Subvert Gender Stereotypes?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Develop the Adult Jane Eyre Through the Child’s Presentation?
• How Does Charlotte Bronte Portray John Reed, Mrs. Reed, and Mr. Brocklehurst in “Jane Eyre”?
• How Did Jane Eyre and Shirley Valentine Achieve Independence?
• How Does Religion Affect the Novel “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte?
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Bibliography

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"Morality and the Modern Reader: Why 'Jane Eyre' Endures"

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will, which I now exert to leave you.” — Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Analysis of the quote - This quote is from Charlotte Brontë's novel "Jane Eyre" and is spoken by the protagonist, Jane Eyre. The quote reflects Jane's strong sense of individuality and independence. Let's break down the analysis:

"I am no bird": This metaphorical statement suggests that Jane refuses to be confined or limited. Birds are often associated with freedom, and by stating that she is "no bird," Jane emphasizes her desire to break free from any constraints or limitations.

"and no net ensnares me": Continuing the metaphor, Jane asserts that she is not caught in any net. Nets are used to capture and restrict movement, so Jane is declaring her freedom from entrapment or control by external forces.

"I am a free human being with an independent will": This part of the quote is a clear declaration of Jane's autonomy. She asserts her freedom as a human being and highlights the presence of her independent will. Jane sees herself as an individual with the agency to make her own choices.

"which I now exert to leave you": In the context of the novel, this indicates that Jane is using her independent will to leave someone or something behind. It's a statement of self-empowerment and determination to pursue her own path, even if it means separating from someone or something that may have been a part of her life.

In summary, this quote encapsulates Jane Eyre's assertiveness, independence, and determination to control her own destiny. It reflects a theme of self-discovery and the struggle for personal freedom in the face of societal expectations and constraints.

"Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë is a classic novel that delves into themes of social class, morality, independence, and the quest for personal identity. The story unfolds through the first-person narrative of its titular character, Jane Eyre, a young orphan who faces adversity and challenges throughout her life.

1. Bildungsroman and Character Development:

The novel can be classified as a bildungsroman, as it follows Jane's growth and development from childhood to adulthood. Her journey is marked by various stages of self-discovery, moral growth, and the assertion of her individuality. The reader witnesses Jane's evolution from a mistreated orphan to a strong and independent woman.

2. Social Critique: "Jane Eyre" provides a critique of the social norms and inequalities of the 19th century. Jane's position as an orphan and governess highlights the limitations placed on women and those of lower social status. The novel challenges conventional expectations of women and explores the consequences of defying societal norms.

3. Romantic Elements: The novel incorporates elements of romance, particularly in Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester, her employer. The romantic plot is, however, unconventional, featuring a strong-willed and morally principled heroine who insists on equality in her relationships. The obstacles Jane faces contribute to the complexity of the romance, adding depth to the narrative.

4. Gothic Elements: "Jane Eyre" also contains gothic elements, especially in the depiction of Thornfield Hall, Mr. Rochester's estate. The mysterious occurrences and the presence of the enigmatic Bertha Mason contribute to the gothic atmosphere, creating a sense of foreboding and suspense.

5. Morality and Religion: Religious and moral themes permeate the novel. Jane's strong moral convictions guide her actions and decisions, providing a moral compass for the narrative. The novel also engages with questions of morality, duty, and forgiveness, particularly in the face of challenges and betrayals.

6. Feminism and Independence: Jane Eyre is often considered a feminist character. Her refusal to conform to societal expectations, her desire for intellectual and emotional equality, and her determination to maintain her independence contribute to the novel's feminist undertones. Jane's journey is one of self-empowerment, and her choices reflect a feminist perspective for the time in which the novel was written.

3 reasons this is a ‘Classic’ must read

Timeless Themes and Universality:

The novel explores universal themes such as love, morality, independence, and the search for identity. These themes resonate across different cultures and time periods, making the story relatable to readers of various backgrounds.

The exploration of social class, gender roles, and the individual's struggle against societal expectations addresses enduring issues that remain relevant, ensuring the book's timeless appeal.

Complex Characters and Psychological Depth:

Charlotte Brontë created complex and psychologically rich characters, especially in the protagonist, Jane Eyre. Readers are drawn into the inner workings of Jane's mind as she grapples with moral dilemmas, societal constraints, and her own desires.

Characters like Mr. Rochester and Bertha Mason add layers of complexity, making the novel a nuanced exploration of human relationships and the complexities of love.

Innovative Narrative Technique and Style:

"Jane Eyre" was groundbreaking in its use of a first-person narrative from the perspective of a female protagonist. Jane's voice is strong, distinctive, and memorable, providing readers with a unique and intimate connection to the character.

The novel's blend of Gothic elements, social commentary, and a romantic plot defied conventional genre boundaries of its time. Brontë's innovative approach to storytelling has contributed to the enduring influence of "Jane Eyre" in the literary world.

Disclaimer: This content has been generated with the inputs of AI. READ ALSO: Review: 'The Stargazers' by Harriet Evans

READ ALSO: Review: 'An Unfinished Search' by Rashmi Narzary

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Review: Theatre Raleigh's JANE EYRE

What did our critic think?

Based on Charlotte Brontë’s 1847 novel of the same name, Jane Eyre follows a young orphan who is put in the unfortunate care of her cruel Aunt Sarah and cousin, John Reed , as per her uncle’s dying wish. After spending six years at Lowood School for Girls, Jane Leaves and is shortly after hired as a governess at Thornfield Hall. There, she meets Mr. Edward Rochester, thus beginning her passionate and heart-wrenching journey of love, loss, and the struggles of morality.

After having its world premiere at the Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto, Jane Eyre later opened on December 10th, 2000 at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre on Broadway. It received 5 Tony Award nominations , including Best Musical. Unfortunately, the show not only failed to win any accolades (largely thanks to The Producers ), but it also struggled to find an audience as the production closed on June 10th, 2001 after 209 performances. In recent years, the creators of the musical, book writer John Caird and composer/lyricist Paul Gordon , have reworked it as a chamber piece. It debuted in Japan last year. Theatre Raleigh’s production in particular marks its U.S. premiere. In fact, both Caird and Gordon were actually in attendance on opening night.

Prior to this, I had no familiarity with the story at all. I’ve never read the original novel nor have I seen any of its subsequent adaptations in different mediums. So as a newcomer, I was mesmerized from beginning to the end. From what I know of the original source material, it was one of the first novels told from a first person perspective. This musical utilizes a fascinating narrative device where each cast member takes turns providing narrations. They’re all supposed to be from Jane’s perspective, but whenever someone else is narrating, it allows the audience to focus on her reactions to what’s being described. I thought that format was used quite effectively. The opening sequence alone shows Jane looking back at her childhood upbringing. Watching that reminded me a lot of the title character in Charles Dickens ’ classic story, Oliver Twist (which of course has its own musical). Mainly in how they’ve been orphaned as infants and get mistreated by the people who’ve been taking care of them. From there, we follow Jane on her journey to adulthood. The story itself may have a somber tone, but John Caird ’s book does provide some natural comic relief.

This production is directed by Megan McGinnis . She’s a Broadway actress who worked with both Caird and Gordon before when she originated the role of Jerusha Abbott in their Off-Broadway musical, Daddy Long Legs . She even went on to direct Theatre Raleigh’s 2018 production of that same musical. On paper, you’d think a story like Jane Eyre needs more elaborate staging and scenery. Yet at its core, it’s a very intimate story. It doesn’t need all those bells and whistles. What McGinnis does with her staging is perfectly intimate, allowing the audience to focus first and foremost on the characters. Although this production is still visually appealing. Jeremy Diamond’s lighting is incredible, Elizabeth Newton’s sets are elegant, Mark D. Sorenson’s costumes are nice, and even Christal Schanes’ wigs (with some help from hair and makeup supervisor Evelyn Putnam) are done well.

Starring as the title character is Julie Benko . That’s right, one of Broadway’s biggest breakout stars in recent years is leading a local production here in the Triangle area. She got her big break as the standby for Fanny Brice in the most recent revival of Funny Girl and went on to originate the role of Ruth in Barry Manilow & Bruce Sussman ’s short-lived musical, Harmony . Here, she is absolutely sublime as Jane Eyre. She’s almost never offstage, and carries the whole thing very well. Matt Bogart gives an emotionally strong performance as Edward Rochester. His relationship with Jane has quite an arc. I thought both he and Benko really nailed it.

This production has a cast of 11 people overall, most of whom are playing multiple roles. Highlights include Chanda Branch as Bertha Mason , a mad woman kept in the attic of Thornfield; Stacia Fernandez as Mrs. Reed, Jane’s maternal aunt, and Mrs. Fairfax, the housekeeper at Thornfield; Ella Frederickson as Helen Burns , Jane’s best friend at Lowood, and Bessie, the nursemaid at Gateshead Hall; Rob Hancock as Mr. Brocklehurst, the owner of Lowood, and a young clergyman named St. John Rivers; Elliot Lane as Jane’s Father and a well educated man named Richard Mason ; Ada Maine, who’s especially quite sophisticated as both Young Jane and Adèle, a little french girl at Thornfield; Anne Scaramuzzo as Scatcherd, a teacher at Lowood, and Grace Poole, Bertha Mason ’s nurse; Tedd Szeto as Jane’s cousin, John, and Robert, the butler at Thornfield; and Soraiah Williams as Jane’s Mother and Blanche Ingram, a young socialite whom Rochester plans to marry.

I found a lot to like about and relate to with Jane Eyre . Paul Gordon ’s score is haunting, brought to life by an impressive seven-piece orchestra. Countless moments took my breath away. I also teared up a few times. This production especially does some of the best of what Theatre Raleigh has to offer. Presenting shows a number of people aren’t too familiar with in a small, but effective way. Do your best to see this in person if you can. Although if you’re unable to, a live capture will be taking place at the final performance on June 9th, which will then be released to the public at a later date.

Theatre Raleigh's production of Jane Eyre is currently running through June 9th. For more information, please click here .

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